Delaware Humane fund helps pets and their owners
The team members at Delaware Humane Association, a statewide animal welfare organization with adoption centers in Rehoboth Beach and Wilmington, believe in the power of second chances, and they’re not alone.
Just ask Major Biden, the lucky German Shepherd who was adopted by Joe and Jill Biden in late 2018 from DHA.
Major was one of six puppies brought to DHA after being exposed to something toxic in their home. The puppies were surrendered to DHA due to financial constraints. By working with a local veterinary emergency center, DHA was able to provide Major and his siblings with lifesaving medical care. It wasn’t long until the pups were ready for adoption, and fortunately for Major, longtime dog lovers Joe and Jill Biden discovered him through DHA’s social media.
The rest is history, and quite possibly still in the making, as Major could soon take up residence in the White House as First Dog.
“To say Major had a second chance would be quite the understatement,” said Patrick Carroll, Delaware Humane Association executive director. “Every animal deserves a safe and loving home regardless of circumstances, but unfortunately not every animal out there is able to have a happy ending like Major.”
Fortunately, DHA just may have a solution to ensure more deserving animals – and their owners – get that second chance.
Longtime DHA supporters and Biden friends Tatiana and Gerret Copeland have created Reggie’s Fund, a generous endowment that will help offset the cost of veterinary medical services for pet owners who otherwise cannot afford them. It helps people whose pets have special medical needs and cannot afford the cost of care. Specifically, the fund aims to prevent owners having to surrender or euthanize their pets due to high medical costs, especially now with the financial strain that COVID-19 is having on so many.
Reggie’s Fund was originally created by the Copelands in memory of their beloved DHA adoptee dog, Reggie. “Reggie was such a loving, warm, and mischievous dog. We were fortunate in finding him at Delaware Humane Association,” said Tatiana Copeland. “He enriched our lives for many years, and my husband and I wanted to create a fund in his memory to help dogs get the best medical care.”
While Reggie’s Fund is primarily for dogs, cats are also eligible. DHA staff are not available to respond or make emergency decisions 24 hours a day, but those interested in learning more about Reggie’s Fund can contact DHA or be referred to DHA through their veterinarian.
DHA embodies the spirit of making friends for life by connecting animals in need with loving members of the Delaware community. DHA’s supporters help the organization continue to aid homeless or injured animals, and find loving families to care for them. To donate to DHA, go to delawarehumane.org/donate. For more information about Reggie’s Fund, contact canderson@delawarehumane.org or call 302-571-0111, Ext. 404.
